Today’s news in brief – 28/10/24
Premier Inn has entered a distribution agreement with Sabre Corporation, allowing Sabre-connected travel agencies access to Premier Inn’s 900+ UK and Ireland properties and 10,500 rooms in Germany via Sabre’s global distribution system (GDS). The integration, facilitated by DerbySoft’s technology, streamlines bookings, merging Premier Inn offerings with other travel services for a seamless user experience. Sabre’s Lodging AI enhances booking recommendations, presenting personalised options to travel advisors. Joe Garrood of Premier Inn highlighted the partnership’s benefits for managed travel, while Sabre’s Chinmai Sharma underscored Premier Inn’s value to the European lodging market.
Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat in Staffordshire reopened on 25 October following extensive repairs after a severe flash flood in September, labelled a “once in 105-year event.” Restoration efforts included ground repairs, new flooring, rebuilt furniture, and enhanced safety protocols. To mark the reopening, the spa is offering a Winter Sparkle package with exclusive treatments. The Oak House Restaurant will resume full services for external guests from November 1, featuring seasonal dishes. Director Penny Weston expressed gratitude for community support and excitement about welcoming guests back.
Aareal Bank AG has arranged a £275m loan to refinance and renovate three Hilton-branded hotels—two in Edinburgh (Curio Collection Caledonia and Hilton Edinburgh Carlton) and one in Dublin. DLA Piper’s team, led by Toby Barker, facilitated the deal. Planned upgrades include room extensions to maintain the hotels’ competitive edge in the market.
The BoTree London, a 199-room hotel that opened last year, is reportedly for sale for £275m. Listed by JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group, the hotel offers a unique opportunity due to its vacant possession status, which is rare in London’s upscale market. The sale includes plans to expand the property to 219 rooms. JLL’s Will Duffey emphasised the hotel’s prime location and appeal in the competitive London market.
